A North Central College theatre professor is performing in an outdoor production of Shakesepeare's "Richard III" that is catching the attention of numerous Chicago-area critics.

Carin Silkaitis, assistant professor of theatre and chair of North Central College's art and theatre departments, appears as Margaret through Aug. 25 at the Oak Park Festival Theatre.

The Chicago Tribune says, "Carin Silkaitis combines the regal and the witchy in her Margaret," while Chicago Critic says, "Director Belinda Bremner has cast well, especially the women as each presented memorable performances. This is a terrific female cast."

The Wednesday Journal of Oak Park and River Forest says, "This play showcases some of Shakespeare's strongest roles for women. Carin Silkaitis is impressive as furious, banished ex-Queen Margaret, a curse-spewing mistress of the occult and widow of Henry VI."

"Richard III" includes such famous Shakespeare lines as “now is the winter of our discontent” and “a horse, a horse, my kingdom for a horse!”

Performances are at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and at 7 p.m. Sundays and Wednesdays through Aug. 25. Oak Park Festival Theatre at Austin Gardens is located at 167 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Tickets are $25/adults, $20/senior citizens; $15/students and free for children under 12 and dogs; call 708-445-4440. Visit oakparkfestival.com to learn more.

Silkaitis has taught theatre at North Central College since 2002 and her connections with Chicago-area theaters have led to numerous opportunities for theatre students and alumni to gain experience auditioning for and being cast in professional roles.